Museums CREATIVE PINELLAS Q&A WITH ARTIST YA LA'FORD Artist Ya La’ford’s murals and geometric designs are found throughout St. Pete, on walls and in museums and galleries. What makes St. Pete-Clearwater’s art scene exception-al? St. Pete-Clearwater’s art scene features a mix of contemporary art, street art and public installations, along with a strong focus on high art experiences. The local artist community thrives on collaboration and innovation, and public art projects turn everyday spaces into vibrant showcases. Regular events like art walks and festivals celebrate local talent. You have murals throughout St. Pete, along with works of public art and recently opened a solo museum show in the city. As a professional artist, how does it feel to be supported by the community and what does that say about the area’s commitment to the arts? Seeing my murals and public art resonate with people and enhance the city’s vibrant atmosphere is truly rewarding. The recent solo James Museum show reflects the area’s strong commitment to the arts, showcasing a desire to uplift local artists. This support fosters a sense of belonging and encourages artistic exploration, highlight-ing the community’s appreciation for art as an essential part of its identity. What aspect of St. Pete-Clearwater’s art scene do you think would surprise first-time visitors? The juxtaposi-tion of vibrant art installations with the serene beach land-scape creates a unique atmosphere, allowing visitors to appreciate the connection between art and nature. This blend of creativity and coastal charm is something that truly sets the St. Pete-Clearwater art scene apart. THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ST. PETERSBURG Murals MULTICOLORED LADY BY DASIC FERNANDEZ VISITSPC .COM 57